• Reboot. Does the problem persist? Ask yourself, "What changed Last?", then back out the last change, if possible.
• Still problems? Try a tuneup or disk maintenance.
• Does it appear to be a hardware or software problem? Can you disable the program or remove the piece of hardware that is indicated in any error messages that have come up? For hardware issues, check with the manufacturer for Diagnostic software, or updated drivers. If that doesn't fix it, the problem may be bad hardware.
• Is there an error message? Try 'Googling' for the specific phrasing and add the additional phrase; "fixed it".
• Read the error message carefully - does any of it make sense? The important things to note are the file or program names mentioned. BEFORE calling a tech, decide to either leave the error on the screen or be sure to write it down, so you can read it (EXACTLY AS IT APPEARS) to your support person. (SNAP A PICTURE!)
• Problem with a specific peripheral? (printer, modem, video) try re-seating/swapping connecting cables, or going to the manufacturers website and getting an updated driver for that device.

After performing the above detailed steps, if the error(s) still occur, then the problem may be more serious or hardware related, and perhaps should be handled by a pro.